Turner calls Weiner’s mayoral bid an ‘uphill battle’

Turner calls Weiner’s mayoral bid an ‘uphill battle’

Former congressman Bob Turner says Anthony Weiner could have a tough time restoring his credibility. Eagle file photo

By Paula Katinas

Brooklyn Daily Eagle

The man who won Anthony Weiner’s congressional seat following his political downfall two years ago has his doubts about his predecessor’s try at a comeback. Bob Turner, who won a special election in September of 2011 to fill out the remainder of Weiner’s term after the congressman resigned in disgrace due to a sexting scandal, believes the newcomer to the mayoral field has a long way to go to win back the confidence of voters, according to his spokesman Bob Capano.

"Former congressman Bob Turner believes that although it is ultimately up to the people of New York City, it will be an uphill battle for Mr. Weiner to restore his credibility in this mayoral race,” said Capano, who served as Brooklyn district director in Turner’s office.

Besides, said Capano, Turner, a Republican, intends to support the candidate of his party no matter what Weiner does in the Democratic Primary this September. “Mr. Turner is committed to supporting the Republican nominee for mayor to keep our city safe and secure, and to grow our economy and create jobs," Capano said.

Weiner officially entered the mayor’s race on Tuesday.

Turner, a businessman, ran against Weiner in 2010 but was defeated by the incumbent. In 2011, Turner won the special election to replace Weiner and served in the House of Representatives until December of 2012. Under redistricting, his congressional district was eliminated and the communities he served were absorbed into the surrounding districts.

Turner made a run for the US senate seat from New York, but was defeated in the Republican Primary by attorney Wendy Long. Long was then defeated by Democratic incumbent http://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/ Kirsten Gillibrand in the general election in November.

May 23, 2013 - 1:44pm

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